Increased funding and access for small community air service development.
This act significantly boosts federal funding for the program dedicated to maintaining and developing air service in small communities. The annual grant amount increases from $10 million to $16 million for fiscal years 2024 through 2028. Crucially, the program now allows communities that have experienced a significant reduction in air service, not just a complete termination, to apply for grants, improving connectivity options for residents.
Key points
Funding increase: Annual funding for supporting air service in small towns increases from $10 million to $16 million for 2024–2028.
Easier access to aid: Communities that have only partially lost air service (e.g., fewer flights, fewer seats) can now apply for grants, not just those that lost service entirely.
Mandatory solicitation: If more than $5 million is available, the government must actively solicit grant applications to ensure funds reach communities in need.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1438
Sponsor: Sen. Tester, Jon [D-MT]
Process start date: 2023-05-03